Vol. 395 No. 2
18 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he will provide any short-term resolution of the transport difficulties being experienced by those who live on the Aran Islands, County Galway; and the present state of proposals to establish a roll-on roll-off ferry service to the islands.
Since the withdrawal of the CIE vessel Naomh Éanna from service in September 1988, the board provided alternative services by means of a chartered vessel for freight and by arrangement with a private operator for passengers. In that connection CIE are endeavouring to ensure that the transport needs of the islanders will be met to the greatest extent possible, pending a decision on the upgrading of the service on a long-term basis.
Various proposals received from the Islands Transport Committee, from the private sector and from CIE themselves, some of which provided for the operation of roll-on roll-off services were assessed by my Department. I saw a need to consider a number of additional options and these are being examined as a matter of priority.
I expect to finalise shortly a proposal for consideration by the Government.
That disposes of questions for today.
